Karnataka Ex-Minister Sparks Row, Says 'Those Hurling Stones At Ganesh Procession Should Be Shot Dead'

Karnataka Former Minister MP Renukacharya reportedly made the statement suggesting it as a measure to prevent violence during Hindu festival celebrations.

Former minister MP Renukacharya has sparked a controversy with his recent remarks that those who pelt stones at Ganesha processions or raise pro-Pakistan slogans should be "shot dead". He reportedly made the statement suggesting it as a measure to prevent violence during Hindu festival celebrations. However, his comments especially in the context of rising communal tensions during religious festivals have drawn widespread criticism.

Expressing his frustration, Renukacharya claimed that police actions were biased during a recent violent incident in Davangere. Speaking to the media, he criticised the government, alleging as per News Karnataka, "Innocent Hindus were arrested and picked up from their homes at night in Davangere. However, no similar action has been taken against those who raised pro-Pakistan slogans in Vidhana Soudha, Bengaluru." 

The former Minister also expressed his dissatisfaction with the state government’s handling of the situation, specifically targeting Karnataka Home Minister for not addressing what he described as double standards in maintaining law and order. He urged authorities to take stronger measures to ensure the safety of Hindus, particularly during festivals like Ganesh Chaturthi.

Last week, six persons including two constables were injured in a stone petling incident during immersion of Ganesh idol in Davangere. According to the police, while Hindus raised Lord Ram slogans another group raised Islam slogans leading to a clash between the two communities. Soon, the clash escalated into a stone-pelting incident near Chamarajapete circle. 

Meanwhile, the former minister was also referring to an incident earlier this year in which pro-Pakistan slogans were allegedly raised during a gathering at Vidhana Soudha, Karnataka's legislative assembly building, as reported by Deccan Herald. Renukacharya accused the government of treating Hindus unfairly while being lenient towards those involved in "anti-national activities".